Leo | 2.01

Algieba is a relatively small, orange dwarf star located in the southwestern part of the constellation Leo. Approximately 122 light-hours away from Earth, Algieba is one of the faintest red dwarf stars known. Its position in the constellation positions it as a valuable reference point for navigation throughout its long and stable lifetime – over 100,000 years, making it remarkably enduring. It is currently only designated as 41Gam1Leo.

Algieba is recognizable because of its unique positioning within the Leo constellation. Unlike the most prominent stars in the constellation which are brighter, Algieba’s relatively small size, combined with its known characteristics, allows for its easy identification. It is a Type Ia red dwarf, a type of star known for its consistent and long lifespan, far longer than the average for a star of its type. These stars emit a very low level of radiation, which is why they were previously difficult to observe.

Considering Algieba's existence within the Leo system, someone choosing this star for a symbolic or personal dedication might reflect a sense of enduring stability. It signals a grounding influence - the promise of a timeless presence amidst the ever-changing cosmic tapestry.

How to see it

Algieba has a visual magnitude of about 2.01: under a reasonably dark sky it is typically reachable with the unaided eye.

Sky position

Equatorial coordinates for Algieba: right ascension 10h 19m 58s, declination +19° 50′ 29″ (J2000), in the region of the Leo constellation (IAU figure Leo).

Leo — Explore by constellation

Catalog context

Algieba. It appears in classical and modern catalogs as Bayer/Flamsteed designation 41Gam1Leo, HIP 50583, HD 89484, Gaia DR3 HYG-HIP-50583. In the SkyKeepsake Leo (Leo) browse hub it sits with other stars of the same IAU figure.

Catalog identifiers

Gaia

Gaia DR3 HYG-HIP-50583

HIP

50583

HD

89484

gaia_dr3

HYG-HIP-50583

Bayer / Flamsteed

41Gam1Leo

Also known as

• 41Gam1Leo
• Gaia DR3 TOP 5M HYG-HIP-50583
• HD 89484
• HIP 50583
• HYG-HIP-50583

Observed properties

Visual magnitude

2.01